AFTER being described as Duracell bunnies, it was appropriate that Liverpool should continue banging their drum in Europe last night.

And there’s no doubt who still makes the loudest noise for Rafael Benitez’s side.

Having seen his team-mates banish their Manchester United hoodoo largely without his assistance, skipper Steven Gerrard served a reminder of his influence with two goals to give Liverpool a winning start to their Champions League group campaign.

Marseille coach Erik Gerets had compared the Anfield outfit to long-lasting batteries after watching the manner in which they harassed United into submission at the weekend.

But the French team’s rousing second-half showing ensured this was a backs-to-the-wall effort from Liverpool.

Although again having to claw their way back from going behind to Lorik Cana’s opener, Benitez’s men were forced to absorb significant second-half pressure as Marseille sought an equaliser.

Gerrard’s double strike inside five first-half minutes – a brilliantly curled shot before passing a test of nerve with a twice-taken penalty – may claim the headlines, but Liverpool were equally indebted to another fine goalkeeping display from Pepe Reina.

Given the hard work Liverpool made of progress to the knockout stage last season, this was exactly the result Benitez wanted with his team already in a strong position in Group D.

Gerrard’s brace means he is now one short of reaching a century of career strikes for Liverpool.

His pre-season had been hampered by a niggling groin injury that eventually required surgery and forced him to play through the pain barrier earlier in the campaign.

But, free from injury, the skipper last night revelled having been restored to his attacking role behind Fernando Torres.

By contrast, the Spaniard, making his own comeback following a hamstring tear, was a largely subdued figure before being replaced in the second half, but will have benefited from the run-out.

What a difference to Liverpool’s last visit to the Stade Velodrome nine months ago. Back then, Benitez was almost certain to be sacked had his team failed to earn the win that would put them through to the knockout stages.

Though once again under the watchful gaze of Anfield co-owner George Gillett, there were no such concerns this time.

Those differing circumstances meant there was never going to be a repeat of the 4-0 thrashing Liverpool dished out here last December.

But Benitez had suggested before the game that, while Marseille were an improved proposition going forward, there was still profit to be gained from an unconvincing back-line.